Andrew Thomas files petitions for Arizona governor

PHOENIX -- Former Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas has filed nominating petitions to get on the Republican ballot as a governor's candidate in the August 26 primary.

Thomas filed nearly twice the required number of signatures Thursday needed to qualify for the ballot. He also turned in more than enough $5 contributions to qualify for more than $750,000 in public funding for his primary bid.

Thomas promised to crack down on illegal immigration. He touted his success in doing that during his tenure as a prosecutor.

Thomas lost his law license because of failed corruption investigations that he and county Sheriff Joe Arpaio launched against political opponents.

Thomas is the fourth Republican to officially file qualifying signatures to appear on the ballot.